The first reviews for “Clayface” have appeared online — James Watkins' body horror film about one of Batman's adversaries, set in the new DC cinematic universe. Critics met the film with mixed reactions: at the time of publication, it had 76% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes based on 91 reviews and a score of 59 on Metacritic after 35 reviews.
In terms of positive review share, “Clayface” surpassed “Supergirl” with its 52%, but lagged behind “Superman,” which has 83%. The new DCU series received even higher ratings: “Lanterns” has 91%, “Creature Commandos” — 93%, and the second season of “Peacemaker” — 94%.
Journalists praise Tom Rhys Harries' performance and the brutal scenes of bodily transformations, but opinions on the plot itself are divided. Some saw “Clayface” as a successful standalone horror film, while others were disappointed by the superficial story of the main character, weak dialogues, and uneven narration.
“This is exactly the kind of ambitious, mid-budget superhero cinema the genre needs more often. One of the best DC films to date.”
“From a mediocre, at best, film, 'Clayface' transforms into a real pleasure once Matt Hagen, played by Tom Rhys Harries, begins to use his powers for revenge to the delight of the audience.”
“Glimmers of potential only allow one to imagine how good this film could have been. But the underdeveloped script and ridiculously clumsy dialogues ultimately convince: this failed experiment should not have been released from the lab at all.”
“As a horror film, it offers superficial thrills, behind which lies an unevenly told tragedy. Even rising star Tom Rhys Harries cannot fully compensate for its shortcomings.”
According to the plot, rising film star Matt Hagen finds himself on the verge of losing his career after a brutal attack that leaves his face disfigured. To regain his former appearance, the actor agrees to experimental treatment, but along with healing, he receives a terrifying side effect. Gradually, Matt loses touch with reality and increasingly succumbs to a thirst for revenge.
“Clayface” was directed by James Watkins, known for “The Woman in Black,” and the script was written by Mike Flanagan and Hossein Amini. In addition to Tom Rhys Harries, the film stars Naomi Ackie, Max Minghella, David Dencik, and Eddie Marsan.
The international release of “Clayface” will begin on October 23, 2026.